Write a paper

n faster n easier n better

You’ve heard of writer’s block, right? Even the most accomplished writers sometimes struggle getting started. Try this:

Find a space free of distractions where you can maximize your time and be productive.

Organize your thoughts. Review your research and decide what you want to say. You don’t need a full-blown outline, but it will help to identify the overall direction.

Don’t stress. Pretend you’re writing an email to a friend, not writing a paper for a grade. Once you begin, you’re on your way. You can edit and clarify after your initial brain dump.

Be clear. Long sentences and big words won’t make you sound smart if they interfere with the meaning. Just write the way you’d say it. (Try this. It really works.) Read your paper out loud. You may have to polish it a bit to make sure it doesn’t sound too conversational.

HOW WE CAN HELP

Consultants from the Writing Center,

run by the Department of English, can assist you at all stages of the writing process. The main office is located in Tawes Hall, but there’s also an office on the 4th floor of McKeldin Library (certain evenings only, first -come, first-served).

Borrow a laptop from McKeldin Library’s TLC Tech Desk and take it to a quiet space — whether it’s your room, a quiet floor of a library, or under a tree on the mall.

Branch libraries offer great spaces.

The Michelle Smith Performing Arts Library, for example, is one of the nicest and most light-filled libraries on campus.